Sago Pondweed
Potamogeton pectinatus
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–48" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CO and 37 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Sago pondweed is an aquatic perennial that grows submerged in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. This native plant produces small spikes of flowers above the water surface during summer months. It requires consistently wet conditions and is not suitable for typical landscape settings.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sago Pondweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
- Requires permanent standing water
- Not suitable for standard residential landscapes
- Would appear dead or absent in typical planting beds
Wildlife value
Provides important habitat and food for waterfowl, with seeds and tubers eaten by ducks and other aquatic birds. The submerged vegetation offers shelter for fish and aquatic invertebrates.
Common questions
- How much sun does Sago Pondweed need?
- Sago Pondweed grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Sago Pondweed bloom?
- Sago Pondweed blooms in May, June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Sago Pondweed native?
- Sago Pondweed (Potamogeton pectinatus) is native to AL, AR, CA, CO and 37 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Sago Pondweed HOA-friendly?
- Sago Pondweed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Sago Pondweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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